MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, visited the Beitbridge Border Post today, 18 October 2024, as part of the October Transport Month Programme.
She was accompanied by Vhembe District Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Frieda Nkondo, Musina Local Municipality Mayor Cllr Godfrey Mawela, Department of Transport Head Mr. Stephen Matjena and other key officials.
The visit aimed to address concerns over illegal activities and community protests along the border area. Mr. Stephen Matjena briefed stakeholders on the necessity of the follow-up visit, prompted by ongoing illicit activities bothering local communities.
Representatives from various law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Border Management Agency(BMA), South African National Defense Force (SANDF), Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA), and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) presented reports on their collaborative efforts to improve border safety conditions despite challenges.
During the visit, MEC Mathye conducted an on-site inspection of the border fence and expressed satisfaction with the progress made. “I am impressed with the progress since our last visit and the commitment of various law enforcement agencies,” she said, acknowledging their collaborative efforts to enhance border security.
This oversight visit demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of South Africa’s borders.